Becoming a mother is a life-changing both for the mom and for the whole family, but it also comes with financial responsibilities that can be overwhelming, especially in the Philippines, where healthcare costs can be a significant burden. Thankfully, the government and private institutions have implemented various maternity financial assistance programs to help ease the financial strain on expectant mothers.
In this blog post, we will explore the different avenues of maternity financial aid available in the Philippines, empowering soon-to-be moms to access the support they need during this crucial time.
Social Security System (SSS) Maternity Benefits
The Social Security System (SSS) in the Philippines offers maternity benefits to its female members to provide financial assistance during pregnancy and childbirth. Women who have paid at least three months of SSS contributions within the twelve-month period before the semester of their childbirth are eligible to claim maternity benefits. The benefit amount is based on the member’s average monthly salary credit and can cover up to 100% of the average monthly salary.
PhilHealth Maternity Benefits
PhilHealth, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, also extends maternity benefits to its members. All contributing female members are entitled to avail of this benefit, which covers both normal deliveries and cesarean sections. The coverage includes prenatal care, hospitalization costs, and postnatal care for the mother and newborn. To access these benefits, pregnant women need to ensure they are updated with their PhilHealth contributions.
Maternity Leave Benefits
The Republic Act No. 11210, or the “105-Day Expanded Maternity Leave Law,” significantly improved maternity leave benefits in the Philippines. It grants female employees in the public and private sectors 105 days of paid maternity leave for every live childbirth, regardless of their employment status. This law also allows mothers to extend their maternity leave for an additional 30 days without pay. This additional time off can be beneficial for mothers who require more time to care for their newborns.
Expanded Maternity Leave for Solo Parents
Solo parents have special considerations under the Solo Parents Welfare Act of 2000 (Republic Act No. 8972). Solo mothers can avail of an additional 15 days of paid maternity leave, providing them with more time to attend to their newborn’s needs without worrying about their finances.
Employer-Based Maternity Benefits
Many private companies in the Philippines offer additional maternity benefits to their female employees. These benefits can include cash incentives, extended maternity leave, and other forms of financial support. Pregnant employees should inquire about their company’s maternity benefit package to take full advantage of available resources.
Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) and Foundations
Several NGOs and foundations in the Philippines are dedicated to supporting expectant mothers and providing financial assistance during maternity. These organizations offer various services, including medical and financial aid, counseling, and educational resources. Pregnant women can reach out to these organizations for assistance during their pregnancy journey.
Maternity financial assistance programs in the Philippines aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by expectant mothers during pregnancy and childbirth. It is essential to be aware of these resources and take advantage of the available benefits to ensure a healthier and less stressful journey into motherhood. Remember, seeking financial aid during maternity is not a sign of weakness; it’s a responsible step towards securing a brighter future for both the mother and her child.